Born on March 31, 1933, to the late Doctor Russell Sauls and Ruth Whittington Sauls, she peacefully embraced her journey into eternity on February 10, 2025, at the age of 91. As the middle child of five, she thrived in a loving family. Her upbringing on a tobacco farm in Garner, NC, nurtured her spirit, where she proudly showed cows at fairs and creatively curled their hair, reflecting her unique zest for life.

She graduated from Garner High School, where she embraced life as a cheerleader, bus driver, and dedicated member of 4H and many other clubs. Her bright smile and sociable nature always inspired those around her.

After graduating from high school, she began her journey as a receptionist at Flue-Cured Tobacco Stabilization in Raleigh, where she warmly welcomed everyone who called or walked through the door. With unwavering dedication, she served in this role for 42 years, ultimately retiring in 1995, leaving a lasting legacy of commitment and kindness.

On April 17, 1954, she married the love of her life, Clyde E. Sorrell, from Apex, at New Bethel Baptist Church in Garner, NC, embarking on a beautiful journey filled with adventure and joy. Together, they celebrated a life rich in experiences and cherished the meaningful friendships that illuminated their path.

On January 17, 1955, they welcomed a son, Clyde E. Sorrell Jr., affectionately known as "Eddie." A decade later, on February 10, 1965, their daughter, Teresa A. Sorrell, came into the world. Shirley's deep love for her children defined her life, as they were her greatest source of joy and inspiration.

Shirley was blessed with four incredible grandchildren who were the light of her life. Cayce Sorrell shone with a vibrant spirit, while Clint Sorrell exuded creativity and kindness. Bryan Atkins, driven by ambition and curiosity, inspired those around him, and Daniel Atkins, with his gentle heart, brought warmth and love. Together, they filled her world with joy, reminding her of the boundless potential and beauty of family.

She was blessed with two wonderful great-grandchildren, Owen Sorrell and Lainey Atkins, and eagerly awaits the arrival of a new great-grandchild due in March, who will bring even more joy to her family legacy.

Shirley and Clyde were among the first charter members of Macedonia Baptist Church! Shirley enjoyed singing in the choir and took on the role of youth leader, inspiring many young hearts. As the years went by, she embraced her time at Swift Creek Baptist Church

alongside her daughter and son-in-law. Shirley had a deep love for God and delighted in playing His hymns on the piano, filling the home with beautiful music.

In her last days, Shirley was prepared to journey home to be with Jesus and to reunite with her cherished husband Clyde, who had left this world in 1994. A pillar of strength and love, she devoted her life to being a nurturing wife, an affectionate mother, a doting grandmother, a proud great-grandmother, a caring daughter, a supportive sister, and a loyal friend to all whose lives she touched.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Russell and Ruth Sauls, her husband, Clyde E. Sorrell, her sister, Ella Mae Sauls Hurst, and Johnnie Ruth Woodall Sauls.

She is survived by her son, Eddie Sorrell (Cindy); her daughter, Teresa Sorrell Atkins (Gerald); and her grandchildren: Cayce Sorrell, Clint Sorrell (Mary), Bryan Atkins (Alexis), and Daniel Atkins. She also leaves behind her great-grandchildren, Owen Sorrell and Lainey Atkins. Additionally, she is remembered by her brother, Silas B. Sauls; her sister, Jean Sauls Rhodes; and nieces and nephews.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Cambridge Independent Living of Apex and Sunrise of Cary for their loving and nurturing care and support, and to Transitions for compassionately guiding Shirley in her final days. Shirley lived life with a profound love, inspiring everyone around her to cherish each moment.